Wind power makes good economic sense

A recent letter ("Economics of wind power won't blow you over," April 22) gave a misguided analysis on the economics of American wind power. Real-world data and studies confirm that wind power is driving economic development and saving consumers money.

Private investment in wind power totaled $25 billion last year alone, spurring a record year of growth. As a result, the wind industry employs over 80,000 Americans with 555 wind component manufacturing facilities across 44 states.

These jobs are well paid and won't be outsourced, as the size and complexity of wind turbines has resulted in nearly 70 percent of the content of each turbine being domestically produced.

According to Lazard, as well as the Energy Information Agency, wind power is now one of the least expensive forms of energy. Also, by adding long-term fixed-rate wind purchase contracts, utilities are protecting their consumers from price swings in the fossil fuels markets.

These facts demonstrate what many Americans already know: our tax policies are working as intended by spurring economic growth, creating jobs and lowering costs. American wind energy is making our electricity grid more secure and ensuring a cleaner energy future.

Elizabeth Salerno

Chief Economist, American Wind Energy Association

Washington, D.C.

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Wind power makes good economic sense

A recent letter ('Economics of wind power won't blow you over,' April 22) gave a misguided analysis on the economics of American wind power. Real-world data and studies confirm that wind power is